The Lincoln penny, first minted in 1909 to honor President Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, holds a special place in U.S. history. Over the years, certain pennies have become highly valuable due to their rarity, minting errors, or historical significance. Some of these pennies have sold for over $1.5 million collectively, making them prized additions to any coin collection. Let’s look into eight of the most valuable Lincoln pennies and what makes them so extraordinary.
Table of Contents
1943 Copper Lincoln Penny
The 1943 Copper Lincoln penny is legendary. During World War II, pennies were supposed to be minted in steel to conserve copper for the war effort. However, a few were mistakenly struck in copper. With only about 20 known to exist, one of these rare pennies sold for $1.7 million in 2019.
Key Facts:
- Minting Year: 1943
- Material: Copper (error)
- Estimated Value: $1.7 million
1909-S VDB Lincoln Penny
The 1909-S VDB penny is another iconic coin, known for the initials “VDB” of its designer, Victor David Brenner, on the reverse. With limited production from the San Francisco Mint, this penny is a collector’s dream. In excellent condition, its value can exceed $1.2 million.
Key Facts:
- Minting Year: 1909
- Mintmark: S (San Francisco)
- Designer: Victor David Brenner
- Estimated Value: $1.2 million
1914-D Lincoln Penny
This penny, struck at the Denver Mint, is rare due to its low mintage. Many were heavily circulated, making well-preserved examples extremely valuable. In 2021, a pristine 1914-D penny fetched $400,000.
Key Facts:
- Minting Year: 1914
- Mintmark: D (Denver)
- Estimated Value: $400,000
1922 No D Lincoln Penny
The 1922 No D penny stands out for a missing mintmark. Struck in Denver, the error occurred when dies were over-polished, omitting the “D.” Collectors prize this unique coin, with values ranging from $300,000 to $500,000.
Key Facts:
- Minting Year: 1922
- Mintmark: None (error)
- Estimated Value: $300,000 – $500,000
1955 Double Die Lincoln Penny
This error coin shows a distinct doubling of the date and other design elements due to a misaligned die. The 1955 Double Die penny is a favorite among collectors, often selling for over $200,000 in mint condition.
Key Facts:
- Minting Year: 1955
- Error: Double Die
- Estimated Value: $200,000
1969-S Double Die Lincoln Penny
Similar to the 1955 penny, the 1969-S Double Die features noticeable doubling, particularly in “LIBERTY” and the date. Extremely rare, one sold for nearly $350,000 in 2018.
Key Facts:
- Minting Year: 1969
- Mintmark: S (San Francisco)
- Error: Double Die
- Estimated Value: $350,000
1931-S Lincoln Penny
Produced during the Great Depression, the 1931-S Lincoln penny has a low mintage, making it highly desirable. In excellent condition, its value exceeds $150,000.
Key Facts:
- Minting Year: 1931
- Mintmark: S (San Francisco)
- Estimated Value: $150,000
1877 Indian Head Penny
Though not a Lincoln penny, the 1877 Indian Head penny deserves mention for its incredible value. With only a few in excellent condition, this rare coin is worth over $1 million.
Key Facts:
- Minting Year: 1877
- Material: Copper-nickel
- Estimated Value: $1 million+
| Coin | Year | Mintmark | Error or Rarity | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 Copper Lincoln | 1943 | None | Copper instead of steel | $1.7 million |
| 1909-S VDB Lincoln | 1909 | S | VDB initials, rare mintmark | $1.2 million |
| 1914-D Lincoln | 1914 | D | Low mintage | $400,000 |
| 1922 No D Lincoln | 1922 | None | Missing mintmark | $300,000 – $500,000 |
| 1955 Double Die Lincoln | 1955 | None | Double Die | $200,000 |
| 1969-S Double Die Lincoln | 1969 | S | Double Die | $350,000 |
| 1931-S Lincoln | 1931 | S | Rare low mintage | $150,000 |
| 1877 Indian Head | 1877 | None | Extremely rare | $1 million+ |
The appeal of rare Lincoln pennies lies in their combination of history, scarcity, and striking minting errors. As collectors continue to seek these treasures, their value remains unmatched. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced numismatist, these coins might inspire you to check your change more closely!
FAQs
What makes Lincoln pennies valuable?
Their rarity, minting errors, and historical significance increase value.
Which Lincoln penny is the most expensive?
The 1943 Copper Lincoln penny, valued at $1.7 million, is the priciest.
What is the 1909-S VDB Lincoln penny?
It’s a rare penny with designer initials, valued at over $1.2 million.
Why is the 1922 No D penny unique?
It lacks a mintmark due to a minting error, making it highly collectible.
Are all Lincoln pennies valuable?
No, only rare pennies or those with errors are worth significant amounts.
